Volkswagen Launches New Company to Build EV Charging Across Canada

Volkswagen Group Canada has announced the formation of Electrify Canada, a new company that plans to build an ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) charging network across Canada.

The network is anticipated to be operational starting in the second quarter of 2019, says VW.

“The Canadian electric vehicle market is growing, creating a great need for charging that is fast, convenient and available in key locations,” comments Daniel Weissland, president and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada Inc. “We are thrilled to be able to offer this service and to take a leadership position in providing this key EV adoption enabler to the Canadian market.”

The initial plan includes the installation of 32 EV charging sites near major highways and in major metro areas in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. Each charging site will have four chargers on average and use non-proprietary DC fast-charging technologies (CCS and CHAdeMO). Charging power will range from 150 kW to 350 kW for longer-range, larger-battery vehicles expected to come to market. The stations will also deliver 50 kW charging power to support EVs from all automotive manufacturers, the company notes.

Electrify Canada, a new limited partnership company based in Ajax, Otario, will manage the rollout and ongoing operation of the network. The company will engage with local vendors to locate, build and operate the network.

Volkswagen Canada was founded in 1952. Today, along with Audi Canada, it makes up Volkswagen Group Canada Inc., a subsidiary of Germany-based Volkswagen AG.